Vitamin A overdose
Vitamin A which is also known as retinol is very important substance that health of body organs especially the eyes and a lack of vitamin A can affect health. Vitamin A is soluble nutrients in the fat. Vitamin A is transported to other parts of our body through the fat and is also stored in fatty tissue in the body. Vitamin A helps in the functioning of visual cells. Vitamin A also helps in fighting various types of infections.
Actually the amount of vitamin A which is required by our bodies can be fulfilled through the normal food in daily consumption such as papaya, spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, etc.. But there are times when some people also consume vitamin A supplements to boost vitamin A in the body. Consumption of these supplements need to be done carefully because the overdose of vitamin A can have side effects. Pregnant women especially should avoid excess intake of vitamin A because it can cause problems in childbirth, and can also cause defects in children. You also may want to know more about food sources of vitamin A.
Vitamin A Overdose Symptoms
Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin A varied according to the excess amount of vitamin A that is stored in the body. Some symptoms that most often occurs when excess vitamin A is:
* A very common symptom observed in the early stages of an overdose of vitamin A is the dry lips.
* Nausea, loss of appetite and headache are the most common disorder observed that occurred as a result of an overdose of vitamin A.
* As it is sometimes also people suffering from excess vitamin A will experience hair loss and skin peeling.
* Enlarged spleen and liver and menstrual irregularity in women also often occur.
* Easily feels tired and weak body.
To avoid an overdose of vitamin A before taking supplements is a good idea before we know exactly how much vitamin A which is needed by the body. Doses of vitamin A depend a lot on age and gender. Children under 3 years of age are advised to consume no more than 300 micrograms a day, while children aged four to eight years old can consume up to 400 micrograms daily. Those ranged from 9 years old until 18 years old should consume about 600 micrograms of vitamin A per day, while those above 18 will require 700-1200 micrograms of vitamin per day. Pregnant and lactating women will require more vitamin A.
If there is a sign that you are experiencing excess intake of vitamin A immediately reduce it. If you consume vitamin A supplements, refrain from first use. Vitamin A from natural food can be consumed daily. Consumption of vitamin A supplements is only if recommended by your doctor.